New Caliph Apprehensive

January 1, 1924

Jerusalem (Mar. 14)

The new Caliph, King Hussein, in an interview at Shuna, with the correspondent of the Manchester Guardian, revealed the difficulties of his new position. After breaking with Turkey and joining the Allies who promises to help him, he now finds them making a peace with Turkey without

even consulting him. His people come to him and say: The Allies have not kept their promise and you broke the unity of Islam by joining them.” He further stated “The title of Caliph was assumed by the Sultans of Turkey who had not the proper qualifications. The Turks used the Caliphate for political and personal advantage and intrigue. They did not protect the religion, and because of their intrigues other powers made reprisals on Moslems.”

Hussein’s Suny, Emir Abdullah, ruler of Transjordania, was optimistic, however. He stated that the Mufti of Mecca had proclaimed Hussein Caliph before the pilgrims and that the pilgrims from all parts of the Moslem world approved. The Mufti of Gaza has also recognized Hussein as Caliph and it is expected that official recognition by the Moslems of Palestine will follow in a few days.